Our Story

Who We Are

Founded in 2015, Wooden Robot Brewery is a 15-barrel urban farmhouse brewery that blends the time-honored traditions of Belgian brewing with the innovation of American craft beer. Born from the shared dream of two friends, Dan Wade and Josh Patton, Wooden Robot was built on a belief in the magic of great beer and great community. With Dan’s brewing expertise, Josh’s business background, and the support of friends and family, they shaped Wooden Robot Brewery into the beloved Charlotte institution it is today.

Dan especially believed that beer had the power to bring people together, spark conversations, and create lasting memories. He believed that everyone deserved a seat at the table, and that belief became the foundation of Wooden Robot’s culture and the guiding force behind its growth.

Tragically, in February of 2024, Dan passed away due to an accident at the brewery. His loss was felt deeply—not only by his family and the Wooden Robot team, but by the wider craft beer community that had come to know and admire him. Yet the spirit he infused into Wooden Robot continues to guide the brewery every day.

Wooden Robot remains profoundly grateful for its amazing team, whose dedication, creativity, and heart keep Dan’s vision alive. The greater Wade family has proudly stepped into a more substantial ownership and managerial role, honoring Dan’s legacy by continuing to nurture and grow the Wooden Robot enterprise in a way that would make him proud. In order to pursue other endeavors outside of North Carolina, Josh Patton has concluded his involvement with the business as of October 2025.

To everyone who has supported Wooden Robot and the craft beer community—thank you. Your enthusiasm, kindness, and loyalty have carried us through both joyful and difficult times. We look forward to continuing this journey with you.

Cheers to great beer, great people, and the spirit of Wooden Robot.